Radiation Therapists are professional healthcare technicians that administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer. The radiation therapist works as part of a radiation therapy team that includes physicians, nurses, dosimetrists, and physicists. Radiation therapists combine an interest in science and technology with a strong commitment to patient care.
Radiation Therapists must apply knowledge of technology, anatomy and physiology, physics, pathology, and oncology. Radiation therapists work closely with social workers, nurses, and physicians to assist patients and their families through the physical and emotional experiences of cancer diagnosis and treatment. They must be comfortable working with critically ill patients and flexible in dealing with a fast pace, unexpected schedule changes, and sometimes long work hours.
Pre-Radiation Therapy students at PSU complete a set of prerequisite courses designed to fulfill admission requirements for Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy (RT) programs at other institutions.
Pre-radiation therapy is a professional track (not a major), but common majors for pre-radiation therapy students include:Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Health Studies: Health Science. Students can choose any major while also completing their pre-RT coursework.
Most pre-RT students attend PSU for 2-3 years working on prerequisites with the goal of applying for acceptance into a radiation therapy program elsewhere. Students may also choose to complete a degree at PSU (common majors for pre-RT students include: Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Health Studies: Health Science) before attending a RT program to complete a 2nd undergraduate degree.
Prospective students interested in PSU can meet with a pre-radiation therapy advisor to learn about the pre-RT track.
Pre-Radiation Therapy is a pre-professional track, not a major. Students can select any major of their choice.